Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriel Monjaras
Hi Gabriel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve been part of the soccer community for over 20 years. Growing up, I spent my childhood in a small soccer shop in downtown Homestead, where my family served the local soccer community from 1996 to 2014. This experience gave me a front-row seat to how soccer connects people and how important quality gear is to players.
Over the years, I wore many hats—league and tournament organizer, referee, coach, and now business owner. These roles deepened my love for the game and gave me insight into what teams need, from youth clubs to adult leagues.
In 2024, I officially launched Defender Soccer, a soccer brand based in the Homestead-Miami area. I wanted to provide high-quality gear with a personal touch—whether it’s designing bold patterns for bold teams or creating school bundles that ignite school spirit. My goal is to empower teams at all levels by delivering gear that looks great and performs even better.
It’s been a whirlwind journey, but I’m grateful to be building something that reflects my passion for the game and my roots in the community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but I think that’s part of the journey when you’re building something meaningful. One of the biggest challenges was starting Defender Soccer from scratch. As a new brand, establishing trust and credibility has been a hurdle, especially in an industry where people often stick to what they know.
Balancing everything—design, production, marketing, and sales—has also been a learning curve. It’s just me running things right now, so managing time and resources effectively is something I’m always working on.
But every struggle has been a learning experience. Whether it’s hearing no from a prospect or navigating the complexities of production, I remind myself that this is all part of the process of growing something worthwhile. It’s not easy, but the wins—big or small—make it all worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Defender Soccer is all about empowering teams of all levels, ages, and genders through high-quality, fully customizable soccer uniforms. Based in Miami, we specialize in creating gear that’s as unique as the teams wearing it. From bold patterns to classic designs, our kits are tailored to reflect each team’s personality and pride.
What sets us apart is our focus on customization, flexibility, and community. We offer a wide range of fabric options, collar styles, and designs to give teams exactly what they’re looking for—whether they’re a local youth team or a competitive league. We’re also proud to work with small minimum order quantities, making it easier for teams of all sizes to access professional-quality uniforms.
Beyond that, we’re not just about selling uniforms; we’re about making an impact. Through a new initiative like Play It Forward, we collaborate with teams and organizations to give back to the community. Whether it’s helping underserved teams access quality gear or building local partnerships, we’re committed to growing the game and strengthening connections.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of our ability to blend creativity with performance. Our kits don’t just look good; they’re designed with top-tier materials that keep players comfortable on the field. I want readers to know that when you choose Defender Soccer, you’re choosing a partner who genuinely cares about your team’s success and experience—on and off the field.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned on this journey is the value of perseverance and adaptability. Starting a business is full of unknowns and challenges, from securing reliable manufacturing partners to building trust with new customers. There have been moments of doubt and plenty of trial and error, but I’ve learned that persistence is key.
Equally important is the ability to adapt. Not every plan goes the way you envision, and being willing to pivot—whether it’s adjusting designs, improving processes, or finding new ways to connect with the community—has been critical to moving forward.
This journey has also taught me the importance of relationships. Whether it’s with customers, collaborators, or suppliers, building strong, honest relationships has been the foundation for growth.
Ultimately, the lesson is to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and every small win adds up to something bigger.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://defendersoccer.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/defendersoccer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/defendersoccer
